Mother files $25 million lawsuit against CSU and state over daughter's death

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WTVM) – The mother of a student who tragically died on the Columbus State University campus last year is preparing to file a lawsuit against the college, the University System of Georgia and the state.

The notice of intent for the $25 million wrongful death lawsuit comes days before the one-year anniversary of the death of 21-year-old Gisele Lara. Her mother, Rebecca Lara, has hired the Salt Lake City, Utah-based law firm Parker & McConkie to represent her in her lawsuit seeking damages.

The law firm claims Gisele was a victim of sexual assault, harassment and stalking on campus, and although she reached out to Columbus State University for help, the university allegedly failed to provide the necessary support.

With this lawsuit, Gisele's mother seeks to demand accountability and change regarding campus safety, administrative oversight, and the responsibility of educational institutions to protect their students, with the goal of saving lives in the future.

“CSU failed Gisele,” said Rebecca Lara. “My beautiful daughter deserved safety measures and protection. I am deeply heartbroken, but I will fight for justice for Gisele and ensure that other families are not struck by such tragedies. Gisele's story will draw attention to the need for improved safety measures and accountability in educational institutions.”

Gisele was a final year biology student preparing to graduate in May 2024.

“Although the full evidence has not yet been released, when it is released, it will clearly demonstrate that Gisele would be alive today if CSU staff had been properly trained and followed the law,” said Brian C. Stewart, an attorney representing Rebecca Lara. “Failure to follow the law can have deadly consequences, as was the case in this case.”

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